Winter in the Wairarapa: Taste, Create, and Unwind
As August arrives, Martinborough lights up for Pour & Explore Martinborough —a month-long celebration of everything the region does best: world-class wine, local culinary gems, fine art, and famously clear Dark Sky night skies.
Winter in the Wairarapa has a way of surprising people. Just an hour or so from Wellington, this corner of the region turns midwinter into a warm, glowing getaway—think crackling fires, local Pinot Noir, and crisp, clear country air.
Whether you’re visiting for a single evening or turning it into a full weekend, here is how to make the most of your Pour & Explore this August.
Highlights You Can’t Miss This August
Unlike massive, crowded festivals, Pour & Explore is designed to help you slow down and actually experience the village:
- Intimate Vineyard Dinners: Special culinary experiences hosted at local wineries, restaurant & cafes paired with Martinborough’s chosen wines.
- Hands-On Creative Workshops: Interactive cooking classes, art sessions, and wine-blending masterclasses.
- and so much more… on https://www.pourandexploremartinborough.co.nz/programme
Flying in or Taking the Ferry? Turn Your Wellington Stopover into a Wine Escape
Passing through Wellington on a North Island road trip or flying into Wellington for the weekend? Martinborough is just a short, scenic drive over the Remutaka Hill.
- Airport & Ferry Pickups: We can pick your group up directly from Wellington Airport, the Wellington Railway Station, or the ferry terminal and bring you straight into the heart of the Wairarapa wine country.
- Luggage-Friendly Shuttles: Travel light while we handle your bags and logistics, getting you back in time for your onward flight, train, or ferry connection.
Skip the Dark Roads & Rural Driving: Let Wai Tours Handle the Wheel
Enjoying a wine tasting or a multi-course dinner shouldn’t come with the stress of driving back on dark, frosty country roads.
Why book your Pour & Explore transport with us?
- Door-to-Door Transfers: Pickup from Wellington, Hutt Valley, or your local Wairarapa accommodation or at your home.
- Flexible Private Charters: Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or local clubs.
- Warm & Comfortable Vehicles: Heated, spacious shuttles so you can travel in total comfort
Planning Your Visit: Quick Tips
- Book Experiences Early: Vineyard dinners and masterclasses have limited seats and sell out quickly.
- Dress in Layers: Days are often crisp and sunny, but temperatures drop quickly once the sun sets over the Tararua Ranges.
- Stay Local or Hop the Hill: Stay in local or Greytown for the weekend, or book a late-night return transfer back to Wellington.
Ready to Explore the Wairarapa This August?
Check out the full Pour & Explore event schedule on the official event page, lock in your favorite events, and let Wai Tours & Shuttles handle the logistics.
Or call us directly at +64 28 410 2614 to check shuttle availability for your dates.